Blocks, creatures, and communities perfectly sum up what Minecraft is. It’s a single or multiplayer video game where you create your own world on your PC or mobile device and play with friends.
You can also play on survival mode to experience living through the night with your constructed shelter and built devices.
With the thrill Minecraft gives, several independent players and business owners have leveled up their games through Minecraft modding. They use SEPARATE SERVERS featuring personal perspectives, content, and rules.
If you’re considering buying a Minecraft server to share your mod on, we have ALL the information you must know about Minecraft server costs.
We’ll help you understand pricing models, monthly payments, plus considerations when selecting your server hosting provider.
Let’s dig in!
How Much Does a Minecraft Server Cost?
The price range for a 15 to 20-player Minecraft server usually costs around $10 to $15. You can reduce costs by exploring server options for less than $10, but high-priced servers are also available, reaching approximately $6,000 monthly.
You may wonder how a Minecraft server’s price can go as low or as high as we’ve mentioned.
Through our research and first-hand experience, we’ll explain pricing models, price breakdowns, and other features determining the price.
Let’s uncover the in-depth answer to your question: how much does a Minecraft server cost across the top 5 hosting providers?
Understanding Minecraft Server Pricing Models
Most players aren’t just seeking answers to the question, “How much does a Minecraft server cost?” They’re also asking for tips, especially when they’re torn on what pricing models or plans to get.
Hence, we gathered essential facts you must know to understand Minecraft server pricing models better:
- Typically, server hosting sites offer freemium services (e.g., basic plan, premium plan, etc.)
- How much you pay will depend on your chosen payment plan. Sometimes, the longer your contract is with Minecraft hosting services, the higher the discount.
- Depending on your Minecraft server hosting provider, it can be paid MONTHLY or ANNUALLY. But most of the time, it comes in monthly payments.
- The price could also depend on how much RAM and what computer hardware (i.e., CPU) your computer has. The lower the figures, the more affordable the price is.
- The pricing models change based on the modpack support, automated backups, and DDoS protection that enhance your experience when you play.
- Prices may vary depending on the software you want. The two versions available are the Java version and the Bedrock version. The Java version is preferred by laptop or personal computer users, while the Bedrock version (pocket edition) is suitable for mobile devices.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Java and Bedrock users cannot play on the same server.
Breakdown: How Much Does a Minecraft Server Cost? (Monthly)
Are you wondering where your money goes after paying for a server? The answer is in front of you. Here is a breakdown of your payment:
- The Minecraft server version (Java or Bedrock/pocket edition)
- How much RAM space you need to run a Minecraft server of choice
- The number of active players (server size)
- Installing modpacks for Minecraft
- Hosting provider’s reputation
- Server location
Aside from knowing where your money goes, you’ll surely be asking this question: how much does it cost considering RAM space availability?
Here’s a list of the costs of Minecraft servers based on RAM and server size:
- $2 for two-player slots, at least 1.5 gigabytes (GB) of RAM
- $10 for ten player slots, at least 3 GB of RAM
- $15 for 20 player slots, at least 5 GB of RAM
REMEMBER: Minecraft’s vanilla version runs on at least 1.5 GB of RAM. The vanilla version is the original one, without any modifications and plugins.
The Impact of the Number of Players on Server Prices
The number of player slots on a Minecraft server SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTS the Minecraft server cost.
One reason for this is the size of RAM space needed to run Minecraft smoothly. RAM stores necessary data that the computer reads, writes, and retrieves to run the game.
The RAM and CPU requirements should be larger if you prefer to offer more player slots for your Minecraft server. But do note that this comes with higher Minecraft server costs.
The Option of Free Minecraft Servers
Did you know that you can get a Minecraft server with zero charges?
Yes! You read that right. You can avail of a free Minecraft server hosting site, especially when you have a tight budget but love to have fun by hosting a Minecraft server.
Here are the free Minecraft server hosting sites you can avail of:
- Aternos
- Server.pro (no automatic backups)
- Minefort.com
Besides being free of charge, these servers also offer amazing features, such as:
- Simple Plan
- Straightforward setup
- Plugins support
- Automatic backups
- DDoS protection
However, you have to deal with limited slots and modpack support because, at the end of the day, server hosts don’t charge you for anything, which comes with its own drawbacks.
How Server Capacity Affects Pricing
As previously mentioned, the number of player slots affects Minecraft server pricing.
This is also directly proportional to the resources needed, modpack support, how memory-intensive the server can be, and assurances of improved performance.
To give you a clear picture, we made a comprehensive guide on how the Minecraft server price changes depending on the number of active players you host. Read on!
Price for a Server Hosting 10 Players
When you host ten players, the average monthly pricing runs from around $3 to $10. This comes with a requirement of at least 2 GB of RAM.
Price for a Server Hosting 20 Players
If you want a larger capacity to host at least 20 players, you must know that it costs at least $15. Aside from the player slots, you’ll need at least 3 GB to 5 GB of RAM.
Price Versus Capacity: What Buyers Need to Know
The thing with purchasing a Minecraft server is that you might be paying for features you won’t maximize in your gameplay.
Before purchasing, ask yourself, “Do I need these features and upgrades?” “Does it fit my budget?” “Is it compatible with my PC’s hardware and software?”
A Minecraft server might be an overkill for your intended use or vice versa. So you need to think carefully.
Here are the things you need to know when talking about PRICE vs. CAPACITY:
- Go for a Minecraft server hosting service that caters to your actual needs in terms of performance and target players.
- Higher capacity will eventually cause you to shell out MORE MONEY because you need to upgrade your PC to get a hold of its required RAM, CPU, and storage.
- Don’t just buy plugins and modpacks to level up your Minecraft server’s capacity. Assess and check its versions first to ensure it is appropriate for your PC.
Selecting the Right Server Hosting Provider
Buying a Minecraft server is one thing, and choosing the best Minecraft server hosting provider is another.
It entails knowing a Minecraft server host that guarantees high quality and RELIABLE performance, the best Minecraft server experience, and straightforward setups — all at a justifiable cost.
You must also consider the hosting services’ customer support, especially when technical issues (e.g., PC compatibility) arise; they should help you to better understand necessary hardware specifications.
With all these said, the message is simple — select the right Minecraft hosting service.
Factors to Consider
Dealing with unofficial Minecraft hosting options can be stressful. This can be avoided by choosing the best Minecraft hosting service, given your needs. Here are some factors you must consider:
- Price – The price should always be right. It means you must consider if the server offers the right quantity (player slots), top-notch security, and backups you need, given its price. Also, the money you pay must translate to a smooth gaming experience that the same server can provide.
- Setup – Choosing your own Minecraft server without looking at the dynamics and processes of its setup is like entering a war zone without prior reconnaissance. Get a particular server that provides a seamless setup on par with your technical knowledge. You should also choose options compatible with your current computer setup and RAM capacity.
- Security – Whether using your home computer, office PC, laptop, or mobile devices, you must consider whether the Minecraft server you’re getting into is secured. It’s considered safe when it’s a remote server that has its own IP address and DDoS protection.
- Backups – Unplanned technical issues are the worst. Yet, it wouldn’t be a problem if your game server had reliable backups. So, make sure to check it out before cashing in.
- Location – An important aspect of improved performance with little to no lag is identifying the location of your server provider.
- Plugins and modpacks – Selecting plugins for your server, along with modpacks, make your gameplay experience the best. It will allow you to modify the game to your liking.
Brand Snapshot: Nodecraft Vs. Apex Hosting
Nodecraft and Apex Hosting are popular hosting sites for good-quality server hosting.
Nodecraft offers an easy-to-navigate setup. Pros and beginners will enjoy a seamless gaming experience with a reliable backup system and a remote server.
For starters, Nodecraft’s price ranges from $9.98 to $39.98, with good customer support, low latency, and 12 server locations. In our experience, when hosting Minecraft through this server, we DID NOT encounter any disruptive lags.
On the other hand, Apex Minecraft Hosting is a much better choice in terms of live customer support. They operate 24/7 in 18 locations throughout the globe, maintaining their solid remote server connections.
You can play with Apex as the host within this price range: $9.99 to $49.99.
PRO TIP: You can also try BisectHosting for easier mod installation and competitive pricing for at least $4.
How Is Minecraft Server Pricing Changing?
The pricing of Minecraft servers changes because you’re not only buying the game server but also getting your hands on a trustworthy program that can run for as long as you need it to.
In the United States in 2020, a hosting service that accommodates 50 to 100 people only costs at least $20 per month. It’s way higher than this year’s $15 approximate price for 20-player slots.
Yet, it’s worth noting that from 2021 to the present, there have been a series of discount schemes (reduce costs), server improvements (e.g., cross-compatibility), and revamped refund policies.
Please TAKE NOTE: The changes in price due to upgrades can also tell us how memory-intensive (or moderate) the newer Minecraft version can be for your RAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’re nearing the end, but we’ll never leave you hanging without answering some of your Minecraft server FAQs in this section. Let’s get started!
What Is the Average Cost of a Minecraft Server?
The average cost for a Minecraft server ranges between $10 and $15. This price range offers to accommodate up to 20 player slots.
How Is the Cost of a Minecraft Server Determined?
Whether you are buying or creating your own Minecraft server, the following factors determine the cost of Minecraft servers:
- Minecraft server version (Java or Bedrock pocket edition)
- The required RAM and storage for your PC
- Server size and ease of setup
- Availability of modpacks, backups, and own IP address
- Hosting providers reputation
- Location
Can I Get a Minecraft Server for Free?
Yes, you can. Here are the trusted Minecraft server lists that offer you the chance to run a Minecraft server at zero cost:
- Aternos
- Server.pro
- Minefort.com
Aside from these, you can also follow a few steps to create a free server.
What Is the Cost Difference Between Different Server Hosting Providers?
The cost difference between Minecraft hosting providers is only about $1 to $2 when comparing options with the same features and RAM and PC requirements.
Differences beyond the mentioned range are usually because of added play features, like plugin and modpack compatibility, customer service support, latency, and a money-back guarantee.
How Does the Number of Players Affect Server Cost?
The number of players affects servers’ cost because it determines the RAM capacity, CPU power, backups needed, and other features, ensuring smooth gameplay (e.g., plugins, modpacks, backups).
Conclusion
The question ‘How much does a Minecraft server cost?‘ is not news in our field. Yet, it’s still vital to discuss because it helps you choose different Minecraft versions and servers that fit your needs and budget.
This article covered many details, from selecting your own Minecraft server host site to answering the ultimate question, “How much does a Minecraft server cost?”
Always put a premium on these factors: price, setup, security, backups, location, plugins, and modpacks.
Once you get the hang of things through this guide, you can make an INFORMED DECISION and eventually get the server that will cater to your needs at a reasonable price point.
Undeniably, you can host and play Minecraft wherever and whenever you are if you’re equipped with everything in store for you in this article.
Wait no further! Open your Minecraft server, create your virtual world, and enjoy playing with friends!
